Which of the following actions is considered sexual harassment by social workers?

The action that is considered sexual harassment by social workers is the request for sexual favors. In the context of social work, sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature that affects an individual's employment, performance, or creates a hostile environment. Requests for sexual favors are inherently coercive and exploitative, violating ethical standards that emphasize respect, dignity, and the promotion of a safe environment for all clients, colleagues, and professionals.

Social workers are bound by a code of ethics that stresses the importance of maintaining professional boundaries and avoiding any actions that could be perceived as abusive or exploitative. This encompasses not only overt sexual advances but also any form of pressure or manipulation regarding sexual conduct.

Constructive comments, feedback on performance, and professional development opportunities are all actions that are fundamental to promoting growth and improvement in a professional setting. These actions, when conducted appropriately and respectfully, do not constitute harassment. Instead, they are part of the professional responsibility of social workers to nurture their practice and support colleagues in their development.